PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — A Maryland toddler is defying the odds after surviving a 15-story fall from an apartment balcony, now undergoing a remarkable recovery.
Nearly 3-year-old TJ Thompson is not only learning his numbers like most toddlers — he’s also learning how to walk again.
“He’s truly our miracle,” said his grandmother, Janiel Thompson.
Janiel and her wife, Whitley, shared that TJ continues to experience nightmares and flashbacks from the traumatic event.
“There was a moment when he was sitting in his wheelchair and looked terrified — like he thought he was falling again,” Janiel recalled.
The incident happened on May 15, when TJ was visiting relatives at the Enclave Apartments in Silver Spring. He fell from the 15th-floor balcony and miraculously survived after landing in bushes below.
TJ sustained multiple injuries, including a broken leg, torn neck ligaments, lung bruises, and a liver laceration. He spent several weeks in a cast, unable to walk.
“Watching him struggle — even when he’s in good spirits — has been hard,” said Janiel. “He just isn’t as mobile as he used to be.”
His recovery process has meant starting over in many ways — including potty training, which had been going well before the fall.
TJ currently uses a wheelchair and walker, still hesitant to put full weight on his leg. His grandmothers admit they worry about setbacks.
“There’s always a fear that if he falls or jumps, it could re-injure his leg and reset the whole healing process,” Whitley said. “But he’s still being a kid through it all.”
Doctors will evaluate him next week to see if he’s ready to begin physical therapy. In the meantime, TJ is more excited about his upcoming third birthday and his wish for toy trucks.
“I want a bulldozer, please,” he said with a smile.
The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to help with ongoing medical and therapy costs.
